Unearthing Stories: An Exclusive Chat with Author Jessica Minyard
There’s a certain magic in meeting an author whose enthusiasm for storytelling radiates in every word they write. Jessica Minyard is one such writer, a creative force whose love for romance knows no bounds. I enjoyed letting her dive into the intricate layers of her craft, her inspirations, and the quirks that make her stories uniquely hers.
A Mood Writer and the Joy of Genre-Hopping
When asked about her favorite genre to write, Jessica chuckles, admitting she’s as much a mood writer as she is a mood reader. “I have the bad habit of flitting around, working on what interests me most,” she confesses. “My interests and ideas outpace my writing speed, unfortunately.” While romance remains her steadfast home, she enjoys experimenting within its many subgenres. Currently, she’s immersed in her contemporary series but teases that fantasy and sci-fi romance may be on the horizon.
But what about a genre she hasn’t dared to try yet? “Horror romance,” she muses. “Maybe… if I didn’t get too scared.”
The Recipe for a Jessica Minyard Book
If Jessica’s writing style were a recipe, it would be a delicious blend of elements that make readers swoon. “A heap of body positivity, a dash of feminine rage, a cup of cutesy, a pinch of humor, and a sprinkle of men who simp to taste.” It’s no wonder her stories resonate with readers who crave romance that’s equal parts heartwarming and empowering.
She loves tropes like second chance, grumpy sunshine, and what she dubs “idiots to lovers.” However, one trope you won’t find in her books? Bully romance. “I like my love interests soft and himbo-esque,” she admits with a laugh.
Characters Who Surprise and Delight
Jessica’s characters have a life of their own, sometimes even surprising her. When asked which of her protagonists could survive in a completely different genre, she immediately picks Emory. “She’s probably the only one who could survive in a thriller or apocalypse novel.” And if she could invite three of her characters to dinner? “Vivien, Sheenah, and Emory,” she decides. “They’re already friends in my story-world, and I think we’d all get along great.”
Has she ever based a character on a real person? Jessica smirks. “For legal reasons, let’s just say yes… but I doubt they’d ever read my books and probably wouldn’t even notice.”
The Indie Publishing Journey
Jessica thrives in the indie publishing world, relishing the creative freedom it offers. “I love the whole process, start to finish,” she shares. “From commissioning my own designers to connecting with readers and other authors, it’s all so rewarding.”
One misconception she’d love to debunk? That indie publishing is the “easy way out.” She shakes her head. “LOLOL. Indie authors are some of the most innovative, risk-taking, and hardworking people I know. It’s not a journey to undertake lightly.”
And her biggest “I made it” moment? “I went to a signing in a different state last year, and a reader came up and said she already had my books! That was wild.”
Quirks, Fun, and Writing Rituals
What’s Jessica’s writing process theme song? “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart… mostly for the ‘I cry a lot but I am so productive’ line,” she jokes. If she were trapped in a bookstore overnight, you’d find her in the romance section. And when it comes to writing snacks, she’s simple. “Just water. I know, it’s boring.”
As for a dream co-writer? “Co-writing is on my author bucket list! I’d love to work with Sloan Spencer, E.K. Darnell, C.M. Nascosta, S.J. Tilly… the list could go on.”
Looking Ahead
Jessica’s journey as an indie author is filled with passion, humor, and a dedication to her craft that shines through in every book she writes. As she continues building her literary world, one thing is certain: her stories will always be brimming with heart, humor, and characters readers can’t help but fall in love with.
Stay tuned for more from this incredible author, who knows what genre she’ll conquer next?
